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Wednesday, July 2, 2025

2 min read

đźš— Top 7 Things to Check When Buying a Used Car in Barnsley, South Yorkshire

đźš— Top 7 Things to Check When Buying a Used Car in Barnsley, South Yorkshire

Buying a used car is a smart choice — whether you're upgrading your vehicle, getting your first car, or need a reliable van for work. But with so many options out there, how do you make sure you're getting a great deal?

At AnyColourCar.com, we’re based right here in Barnsley, and we believe buying a car should be simple, modern, and completely hassle-free. To help you out, we’ve put together this expert checklist to guide you through what to check when buying a used car — especially if you’re shopping locally in South Yorkshire.

1. Check the Vehicle History

Before anything else, ask for the full vehicle history report. This should include:

  • MOT history

  • Previous ownership

  • Recorded mileage

  • Any insurance write-offs or accident damage

At AnyColourCar.com, every vehicle we sell includes a full history check, so you’re never left guessing.

2. Examine the Exterior and Interior

Barnsley roads (and weather!) can take a toll on vehicles. Walk around the car and look for:

  • Rust patches, especially around the wheel arches

  • Paint inconsistencies (signs of repair work)

  • Tyre condition and tread depth

  • Interior wear — especially the driver’s seat, pedals, and dashboard

3. Listen to the Engine

A test drive is essential. Listen for:

  • Unusual knocks, ticking, or rattling

  • Delayed acceleration or stuttering

  • Excessive exhaust smoke (especially when cold)

We encourage test drives on real Barnsley roads so you can experience how the car performs in familiar settings.

4. Test Drive on South Yorkshire Roads

Don’t just drive around the car park. Try:

  • Urban driving: Navigate through Barnsley town centre

  • Dual carriageways: Take a short stretch on the A628 or M1

  • Country lanes: If possible, try routes toward Silkstone or Penistone

Testing a car in typical local conditions reveals a lot about its handling and comfort.

5. Review the Service History

A well-documented service history proves the car has been looked after. Look for:

  • Regular oil changes

  • Brake fluid and timing belt replacements

  • Recent services (especially for high-mileage cars)

We only stock vehicles with verified service records to give you confidence.

6. Check the MOT & Emissions

All vehicles in the UK need a valid MOT. For Barnsley buyers, also consider:

  • Future MOT expiry dates

  • Advisory notes on the last test

  • ULEZ compliance (if you ever drive into Sheffield or Leeds)

Our team will walk you through the MOT details and emissions performance of every vehicle.

7. Choose a Trusted Local Dealer

You don’t just want a good car — you want a good experience. Look for a local Barnsley dealership that:

  • Has positive online reviews

  • Offers clear pricing with no hidden fees

  • Makes it easy to buy online or in person

  • Doesn’t pressure you into decisions

At AnyColourCar.com, we’re proud to offer a modern car buying experience right here in Barnsley. We’ve removed the stress, added transparency, and made the entire process as easy as ordering online — because that’s how it should be.

âś… Final Thoughts

Whether you're buying a used car, van, or pickup truck in Barnsley or anywhere in South Yorkshire, follow these 7 steps and you’ll be on the road with confidence. And remember — when you buy with AnyColourCar.com, you’re choosing a hassle-free, trustworthy, and local car retailer that puts service first.

🔍 Browse our current stock of vehicles [here]
📞 Or call our Barnsley team today for expert advice and easy financing

anycolourcar.com

anycolourcar Limited is registered in England and Wales under company number: 12573459. Genn Lane, Barnsley, S70 6TF. anycolourcar Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, under FCA number: 946186. We act as a credit broker not a lender. We work with a number of carefully selected credit providers who may be able to offer you finance for your purchase. (Written Quotation available upon request). Whichever lender we introduce you to, we will typically receive commission from them (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow) and this may or may not affect the total amount repayable. The lender will disclose this information before you enter into an agreement which only occurs with your express consent. The lenders we work with could pay commission at different rates and you will be notified of the amount we are paid before completion. All finance is subject to status and income. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 years or over. We are only able to offer finance products from these providers. As we are a credit broker and have a commercial relationship with the lender, the introduction we make is not impartial, but we will make introductions in line with your needs, subject to your circumstances. anycolourcar Limited are registered with the Information Commissioners Office under registration number: ZA863807

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